Mayor of London Sadiq Khan issues air quality alerts across capital

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan issued the warnings for the first time at bus stops, Tube stations and roadsides in the capital because of what he described as "high pollution levels".

Anyone experiencing discomfort such as sore eyes, a cough or sore throat is advised to consider reducing their activity, particularly outdoors.

The alerts were issued at around 4.30pm on Thursday.

Mr Khan said: "Londoners need to know when the city is suffering from high pollution levels so they can take any necessary appropriate measures to protect themselves from poor air quality.

"This is particularly crucial for Londoners who are vulnerable, such as asthma sufferers."

The alerts are being displayed at 2,500 bus stops and river piers, the entrances of all 270 Tube stations and on 140 signs next to the busiest main roads into London with instructions to switch engines off when stationary to reduce emissions.

A spokeswoman said the warning is expected to remain in place throughout Thursday night and come to an end tomorrow, although this will be kept "under close review".

King's College London described air pollution in London as "high" on Wednesday due to an area of high pressure over the UK resulting in calm, settled and cold conditions and poor dispersal of local pollutants.